Judith Baker takes an enchanting Pearl of The Adriatic cruise around the islands of Montenegro on a traditional wooden gulet
The islands of Montenegro are filled with fascinating sites and natural beauty and what better way to experience them than by a leisurely sail on a boat full of character
Kaptan Sevket is a classic wooden gulet – a traditionally built wooden yacht that is taking me on a romantic voyage around Montenegro’s beautiful islands, dotted in the Adriatic Sea. We will stop at UNESCO sites, lovely secluded beaches, tiny fishing villages and imposing historical landmarks.
The boat is the perfect size to manoeuvre into docks and bays that bigger boats cannot reach, which means we can stop for a swim and have a secluded bay all to ourselves, and disembark in a small village for lunch with the locals. far away from the cruise ship crowds.
Kaptan Sevket was built in Turkey and the crew is Turkish, all well accustomed to the skills required to drive this type of boat. The boat can accommodate up to 12 people in 6 stylish double/twin cabins each with shower, toilet, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and all creature comforts. The atmosphere is intimate and relaxing, and with just a few passengers, service is personal and attentive.
On the back deck is an elegant dining table and the main room has dining table, bar, TV and cosy seating. There is tiled sunbathing area on the front deck and a plush outdoor lounge perfect for sundowners.
All the crew are friendly and the chef prepares three hearty meals a day, using fresh local produce. One afternoon we watched the captain on deck catch fish that was to become our dinner that night. The food is simple and unfussy, in a classic Mediterranean style and the chef proves to be a dab hand at producing mouth-watering desserts. Local Wines and beers available from the bar are excellent.
We disembark to eat dinner at stops on the cruise three times, discovering first class restaurants and bars in the winding Montenegrin streets and town squares
The Gulet Cruise
Starting in the glitzy port Porto Montenegro in Tivat, surrounded by super yachts and glamorous people, our lovely gulet sets sail to see some of Montenegro’s’ fascinating towns and islands., passing magnificent scenery en route and enjoying the luxury of the wind in our hair. It is an uplifting experience to travel on such a traditional and stately boat surrounded by nature.
Budva, one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, was founded more than 2,500 years ago and proves to be a fascinating stop.
It is known for great beaches and its Stone walls surround the narrow streets of the medieval old town, filled with colourful shops, cafes and bars. The historic district houses a seaside citadel.
Sveti Stefan is a fortified island village, a charming collection of 15th century stone villas once loved by the likes of Sophia Loren and Princess Margaret. After a refreshing swim we sail on and dock at the delightful fishing village of Bigova with its vines, pomegranate and olive trees.
Perast
The colourful and photogenic island of Perast is filled with palazzos and pretty churches as well as fantastic bars and cafes with seafront terraces ideal for boat and people watching.
There are several tiny islands to observe from Perast, among them the magical 15 the century Our Lady of the Rocks which is just a short sail away
Kotor Old Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kotor Old Town is a warren of winding streets housing Venetian inspired architecture, palazzos and crumbling churches. The energetic can climb the steps of the 14th century town walls to be rewarded with amazing views over the Bay of Kotor.
Herceg Novi
One of Montenegro’s most imposing coastal towns, Herceg Novi is a fortified city with fortresses, churches and a lively array of bars, cafes and d restaurants.
The cruise ends with a sumptuous captain’s dinner under the stars.
Tell me more about cruising around the islands of Montenegro
The Pearl of The Adriatic Cruise lasts eight days and seven nights and departs from May to October.
Departure and return location is Porto Montenegro Marina, Tivat, Montenegro
Nearest airports are Tivat, Podgorica and Dubrovnik.
Prices from £1675 per person
T:: +38269346080 E: reservations@guletcruisemontenegro.com
